🎙️ Am I the Toxic One? | Surviving Toxic Relationships with Lizzie & Deana

Are you the toxic one... and don’t even know it?
In this eye-opening episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, Lizzie and Deana turn the mirror inward to explore a question many avoid: Could we be contributing to the toxicity in our relationships?

Together, they unpack the subtle but critical differences between toxic behaviors and trauma responses, and how unresolved trauma might be driving harmful patterns. This isn’t about blame—it’s about self-awareness, accountability, and growth.

Through candid conversation and practical tools like journaling and self-assessment strategies, Lizzie and Deana guide you on how to:

• Recognize toxic traits in yourself and others
• Understand the root causes (like fear of abandonment)
• Take actionable steps toward healing
• Build support systems that uplift your journey
• Stop repeating toxic cycles—and start rewriting your story

Whether you’ve asked yourself “Am I the toxic one?” or just want to create healthier relationships, this episode is your roadmap to transformation.

🔍 Key Takeaways:

• Toxic behavior often stems from unhealed trauma
• Self-reflection is essential for personal growth
• Accountability is the first step toward lasting change
• Support systems and journaling can accelerate healing
• You can change—and the desire to do so is your greatest strength

👉 Hit play to reflect, reset, and rise above the toxicity—starting with you.

Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share if this episode resonates. Your journey matters, and we’re right here with you.

🎙️ Stay Connected with Us!
📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12
🎵 Follow us on TikTok: @thematadoras
🌐 Visit our website: survivingtoxicrelationships.org

📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras

In this powerful and compassionate episode, Lizzie and Deana dive deep into the emotional complexities of leaving toxic relationships. They explore the internal battles many face—fear, guilt, and trauma bonds—and how these emotions can make leaving feel even more difficult than staying.

Through real talk and heartfelt insights, they shed light on:

• Why the fear of the unknown often feels safer than taking the leap,
• How guilt and shame can sabotage healing,
• And most importantly, the critical role of community support in navigating this painful transition.

Whether you're considering leaving, in the process, or supporting someone who is—this episode offers a grounded, honest, and hopeful roadmap forward.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Leaving a toxic relationship brings both relief and fear—both are normal.
• Emotions are temporary; healing is possible.
• Supportive community is essential to break free and stay free.
• Trauma bonds can keep you attached even when you want out.
• Feelings of guilt and regret are common—but not facts.
• Staying rooted in truth is your greatest weapon.
• The fear of change can be deceivingly comfortable.
• Documenting your "why" can keep you strong during weak moments.
• It's okay to feel awkward and unsure in the beginning.
• Healing is not linear—be patient and kind to yourself.

❤️ Connect & Share

If this episode resonates with you or someone you love, please:

• 💬 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts
• 🔁 Share this episode with a friend or support group
• 📲 Follow the show for more honest conversations and healing insights

🎙️ Stay Connected with Us!
📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12
🎵 Follow us on TikTok: @thematadoras
🌐 Visit our website: survivingtoxicrelationships.org

📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras

In this deeply moving episode, Avonley Lightstone, Author of "Strength of Scars", opens up about her powerful journey from unimaginable loss to unshakable faith. After losing her mother at 3 years old in a tragic fire and enduring years of emotional and physical abuse in her adoptive home, Avonley shares how finding God became a turning point in her path to healing.

Through candid conversation, she explores the importance of not internalizing trauma, the personal nature of forgiveness, and how denial can block true healing. Avonlea reminds us that our scars can become symbols of resilience—and that with faith, hope, and support, even the most painful stories can be transformed into sources of strength.

If you or someone you love has faced trauma, abuse, or grief, this episode offers a powerful message: healing is possible, and you are not alone.

Check out Avonley's book here! https://bit.ly/StrengthofScars

🌐 Site: avonleylightstone.com
TikTok: ‪@AvonleyLightstone‬
Instagram: @avonleylightstone
YouTube: ‪@AvonleyLightstone‬

🎙️ Stay Connected with Us!
📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12
🎵 Follow us on TikTok: @thematadoras
🌐 Visit our website: survivingtoxicrelationships.org

📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras